What a contrast there is between the delicate formations of Bryce and the enormous, majestic formations of Zion National Park. It is not surprising that the early pioneers who entered this canyon gave the formations Biblical names: the Great White Throne, the Patriarchs, the Pulpit, and the Alter of Sacrifice. Zion is more awesome than beautiful.

Automobile traffic is banned from the main canyon in Zion. Shuttle busses take visitors to the overlooks and trailheads. This worked out well for my husband whose knee is still tender. The kids and I took a couple of easy walks: one up to a viewpoint of the Court of the Patriarchs, the other Riverside Walk, a one mile trail from the end of the road back into the narrowest, steepest part of the canyon.

This is my third vacation since starting the Blood Type Diet. In 2003 I had been on the Type O diet for less than two months when we left for a trip to the Midwest. It was hard to think of picnic food besides sandwiches. I remember eating sliced turkey on rice crackers a lot. My family rolled their eyes when I bought a small can of spinach and mixed it with tuna.

In 2004 I decided canned vegetables and tuna were the best choices for me on vacation picnics. I found several vegetable choices, but I did get a little tired of tuna.

This year I have found a better assortment of compliant foods. Before leaving home I bought canned tuna, canned salmon, and sardines. I found small cans of spinach, asparagus, peas & carrots, and lima beans. In addition I always had sliced turkey in the ice chest. I bought sliced roast beef as well, when I could find a brand without nitrites. There are many combinations I can make with those ingredients. I have food that is satisfying to my body, as well as enough variety to keep my taste buds interested.

It was a wonderful moment one night when my son saw me open a can of asparagus and asked if he could have some too. I served it in a bowl with a little olive oil and he enjoyed every bite.